Susan Hartzler is an author, blogger, and advocate for the human–animal bond who shares her life with dogs through storytelling, real-world experiences, and practical guidance. Her work explores dog-friendly living, training, health, and the everyday moments that shape life with dogs.
Drawing from her years of experience—as a therapy dog handler—she explores how dogs help us feel grounded, connected, and supported in ways that go beyond companionship.
In her books, blog, Substack musings and talks, she combines heartfelt storytelling with practical resources to inspire, inform, and support. As a passionate advocate for the human-animal bond, her work and life are rooted in the transformative power of our relationships with animals.
Explore the site to discover new ways to connect with your dog!
As a highly respected author, blogger, public relations specialist, and public speaker — and as a recognized authority on therapy dog training and the human-animal bond — Susan Hartzler serves as a trusted resource for dog lovers, caregivers, single adults, businesses, and the broader public.
In her books, blog, Substack musings and talks, she combines heartfelt storytelling with practical resources to inspire, inform, and support. As a passionate advocate for the human-animal bond, her work and life are rooted in the transformative power of our relationships with animals.
On a purposeful trip to the pound, she hopes to find a dog to care for, one that will sniff out the bad guys. After all, the best way to get a man is to stop searching for love. Men come and go, but her faithful friend will always stay.
Susan might not have found a man, but she finds her dog, giving her a sense of purpose and helping her find meaning in her crazy world. Susan might not have found a man, but she finds her dog, giving her a sense of purpose and helping her find meaning in her crazy world.
By saving a dog, she rescues herself, loving herself as much as her dog loves her.
After all, there is no love like dog love. It can change your life forever, completing you with unconditional love.
Follow Susan on her journey, filled with the ups and downs and the many trials and tribulations that the years have to offer before she realizes that life itself is a gift.
Books That Celebrate the Human-Animal Connection Susan’s books include I’m Not Single, I Have a Dog: Dating Tales From the Bark Side, a humorous and heartfelt memoir about navigating single life with a four-legged wingman, and The Peace Puppy: A Memoir of Caregiving and Canine Solace, which explores the emotional journey of caring for her father while training a therapy dog who helped them both heal.
Susan’s third book, Teaming Up With Therapy Dogs: Skills to Build Healing Partnerships, is hot off the press! Read about it on the Books page.
Paws on the Go Blog Susan’s Paws on the Go blog is your go-to guide for dog-friendly places to go, things to do, and must-have items for life with your dog. She shares real-life recommendations on travel, outings, and products she trusts, along with practical tips on training, health, and everyday care—so you and your dog can get out and enjoy more together.
Check out the weekly stories, advice and recommendations from Susan and her pack!
SubstackSusan’s Substack, BlissDog: Soul Stories About the Human–Animal Bond, explores the deep connection between people and their dogs through personal essays, real-world experiences, and insights from her work as a therapy dog handler. It’s a space for readers who know dogs do more than keep us company—they help us feel grounded, supported, and understood. Her Sit With Me series offers guided meditations designed to be done with your dog by your side, helping you tap into their natural calming and healing presence to settle your nervous system and come back into your body.
Follow along on BlissDog and experience Sit With Me for yourself!
What the Future Holds When she’s not writing, Susan and her pack—Seven and Paige Turner—can be found sharing their work as a certified therapy dog team, visiting schools, hospitals, and community spaces. Susan is also available for speaking engagements, media opportunities, and book signings.
Come visit often!
Have a question, or a request for Susan’s expertise? Contact her!
